Species Black Alpine Sedge
Dark-green leaves and brown seedhead.

Black Alpine Sedge

Carex nigricans

Black Alpine Sedge is a unique and beautiful perennial grass-like plant native to the alpine ecosystems of Europe. Standing 8-12 inches tall, its shiny, black stems reach upwards in arching fashion with grass-green leaves at the stem bases. It produces a colorful display of brownish-purple and yellow flower-like clusters from June to August. Carex nigricans can grow in a variety of soil conditions and does particularly well in sand and gravel soils. It is easy to establish and is very tolerant of dry conditions. It needs semi-shade to maintain its dark foliage. Black Alpine Sedge is an eye-catching addition to rock gardens and alpine gardens.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Partial Shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Nebraska Sedge should generally be watered every 3-4 days and should be given enough water to moisten the soil without creating puddles or overly soggy soil. Water is best applied to the root zone of the plant and is best performed during the morning when the sun is low and temperatures are not as hot. Make sure to avoid watering the foliage of the plant, as wet foliage may be prone to fungus and disease. For container plants, make sure to empty out water trays after watering or water very lightly so that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.

sunlight

Nebraska Sedge requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. The best time to provide your Nebraska Sedge with adequate sunlight is during the late afternoon and evening hours - between 4pm and 7pm - when the sun is lower in the sky. This stands in contrast to other plant species which require noontime sun. During cooler months, provide Nebraska Sedge with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. In warm summer months, 8 to 10 hours of sunlight is best. Nebraska Sedge can also tolerate partial shade. However, reduced light levels can lead to lower growth rates and smaller fuller plants.

pruning

Pruning Nebraska Sedge should be done in the fall after the growing season is over to promote healthy growth in the spring. Pruning should involve removing up to 1 third of the dead or dying leaves. When pruning, be sure to cut at the base of the plant and remove old foliage completely. If possible, do not prune when temperatures are high, as this can cause shock to the plant and stunt its growth. Prune in early to mid-autumn when weather is mild, but before the first frost. Regular pruning will ensure that Nebraska Sedge remains healthy and lush.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.